Friends and family of Cairns mum Claire Tucker have launched a fundraising campaign as they pray for her recovery from life-threatening injuries suffered while walking alone after the Cairns Cup on Saturday. 

As police appeal for public assistance to help piece together Claire's movements leading up to the point she was found unconscious in a drain near Stockland Earlville, her friends are hoping to raise money to help pay for medical expenses and care for her five-year-old son.

Friends have described Claire as the "most kind-hearted and generous person". They describe her injuries as "so severe that she will have some permanent brain damage."

The fundraising campaign has raised more than $2000 since being launched on Monday night.

The campaign's message in full is: 

"Our beautiful friend Claire Tucker needs your help. She was involved in a horrific accident on Saturday the 12th of August, 2017. After enjoying the day at the Cairns Cup Races, she was separated from friends at the end of the night, when tragedy struck.

"She was found unconscious in a drain at the bottom of the bridge over Clarkes Creek on the Bruce Highway, outside Stockland Shopping Centre Cairns.

"Police are still appealing for witnesses but unfortunately Claire has sustained serious life threatening injuries and she is still currently in a critical condition.

"She has major brain trauma, broken bones in her neck, back and spine and is in a coma. Her brain injuries are so severe that she will have some permanent brain damage. Our Claire is the most kind-hearted and generous person, all those that cross her path fall in love with her infectious and energetic nature.

"Regardless of her own situation she would always put others needs before her own. She lives an extremely healthy and active lifestyle and is involved in countless community events and is passionate about Netball and Touch Football.

"Claire's only income as a single mother to a amazing little boy, only 5 years of age, is a small business that she runs from home but due to her circumstances we have had to close the salon until further notice.

"Any money donated will help towards Claire's day-to-day bills, medical expenses, her long road to recovery and renovations to her highset house to accomodate her condition.

"We understand in this day and age there are alot of people in need so we appreciate even the smallest of donation. Every dollar will help.

"Thankyou from the bottom of our hearts, Claire's Friends & Family."

You can donate to the fundraising campaign by clicking here.